Stephen Conroy quits following Gillard leadership loss

Stephen Conroy, the minister for broadband, communications and the arts, has confirmed his resignation after Julia Gillard was ousted as the Australian prime minister and Labor leader today by former PM, Kevin Rudd (26 June).

Conroy made the announcement via his Twitter handle, @conroyMO, where he also called on the Australian public to continue to "keep supporting Labor and the #NBN, most important infrastructure in our country's history".

The news of Conroy's departure is unsurprising given his outbursts against Rudd over recent days, and his claims that he would not continue to serve should the former Australian prime minister be reappointed to the post.

Finance minister Penny Wong has reportedly taken over Conroy's position as leader of the government in the senate, the first female to do so.

Gillard lost the leadership to Rudd today in a Labor caucus meeting, securing 45 votes against Rudd's 57. Rudd's deputy prime minister is Sydney MP and minister for infrastructure and transport, Anthony Albanese. He takes the position from Wayne Swan, the former treasurer, who has confirmed he will recontest the next election..

Gillard has resigned from the post to the Governor-General and has stated she will not recontest her seat at the next election.

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